The Common sea-horse (Hippocampus whitei) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
White's seahorse is a seahorse from coastal and estuarine water of eastern Australia, around Sydney. The species grows to about 13 cm and has an upright, bony-ringed body, a horse-like head and a prehensile tail with which it clings to seagrass, sponges and artificial structures. With its tubular snout it sucks up minute crustaceans. The male broods the eggs in a pouch. Owing to habitat loss the species has declined sharply. The IUCN assesses it as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common sea-horse?
The Common sea-horse has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Common sea-horse live?
The Common sea-horse lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Common sea-horse get?
The Common sea-horse grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Common sea-horse dangerous to humans?
No, the Common sea-horse is harmless to humans.
Is the Common sea-horse edible?
The Common sea-horse is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hippocampus
More from the family Syngnathidae
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